Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is not able to circulate enough blood. This decreases the amount of oxygen and nutrition delivered to the body. Heart failure can take place when the heart becomes hardened or weakened. Heart failure, if not treated, can cause serious complications. But with efficient treatment, heart failure can be managed effectively.
What Is Heart Failure?
Heart failure is when the heart is unable to pump blood properly. It does not imply that the heart has stopped, but it is not pumping as efficiently as it should. The heart may have difficulty in getting blood to the rest of the body. This causes individuals to feel short of breath, tired, and puffy in the legs.
There are two broad categories of heart failure: systolic and diastolic. Systolic heart failure happens when the muscle of the heart becomes weak. Therefore, diastolic heart failure occurs when the heart becomes stiff so that it cannot fill with blood. Both can lead to similar symptoms but under different conditions.
Causes of Heart Failure
There are several reasons why heart failure occurs. Some of the most common causes of heart failure are high blood pressure, heart attack, and diabetes. Other lifestyle issues like smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise can lead to heart failure. Certain causes of heart failure are arrhythmias (irregular heart beats) and valve disease.
Additionally, there is an inherited susceptibility where previous history of heart disease can predispose to heart failure.
Early and routine intervention for symptoms of weakness is advised in the follow-up for the well-being of the heart.
Symptoms of Heart Failure
People with heart failure can become short of breath, especially when they are active or exercising. Swelling of the legs, ankles, and feet is also experienced. Fatigue and dizziness are experienced. A persistent cough that worsens when lying down is also experienced.
If you feel any of these symptoms, it is essential to meet with a medical practitioner. Furthermore, treating the condition in time will prevent its further worsening. Visiting a cardiology hospital nearby can provide an individual with the assistance and attention they require.
How Is Heart Failure Treated?
Heart failure should be treated and managed effectively. There are many ways through which one can treat the condition and improve their lifestyle.
- Medications
Medications are also commonly prescribed by physicians for treating heart failure. Medications may be ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics. The medications help the heart pump more effectively and avoid fluid accumulation. Medications also control blood pressure and avoid further heart damage.
- Lifestyle Changes
Keeping a heart-healthy lifestyle can improve symptoms by a great deal. A healthy diet, avoidance of excessive salt intake, and exercise are the keys. Quitting smoking and alcohol use may also take care of heart failure.
Stress levels may be managed and sleep quality can be enhanced to help the heart. Doctor consultation regarding an exercise regimen suitable for heart failure is necessary.
- Medical Devices and Surgery
In some cases, doctors can order surgery or medical equipment. Devices like an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or pacemaker can regulate the heart rhythm. Devices can stop life-threatening arrhythmias.
Surgery is also needed in extreme cases. Valve repair or heart transplant surgery can improve the functioning of the heart. However, these are usually reserved after other forms of treatment are tried.
- Hospitalization
Hospitalization can be required in advanced heart failure. The patients can be admitted to intensive care in hospital for aggressive therapy. Constant care is given in hospitals. The patients can be treated with drugs, intravenous fluids, and ventilator support while in the hospital.
How Heart Failure Is Diagnosed?
Doctors use several tests to determine heart failure. They include blood tests, chest X-rays, and echocardiograms. An echocardiogram helps doctors assess how efficiently the heart pumps. In addition, an electrocardiogram (ECG) can be used to monitor the electrical activity of the heart.
Additionally, a physician may utilize a CT scan or MRI to better visualize the heart. Such tests assist physicians in determining why heart failure occurs and devising an effective treatment plan.
When to Seek Medical Help?
If you experience symptoms like chronic shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling, then it’s time to consult a doctor. However, a Baroda Best Hospital can provide you with effective treatment and identify heart failure in the early phase. Early detection is the clue to managing the condition and preventing complications.
If the symptoms worsen instantly, such as puffiness or difficulty in breathing, search for immediate hospitalization. You might need serious hospitalization to stabilize your condition.
Conclusion
Heart failure is a grave condition but can be managed. Early diagnosis, proper treatment, and lifestyle modifications are extremely significant. The symptoms can be managed through drugs, medical implants, and surgeries. The optimal method, however, to protect your heart is to look after yourself.
If you have any symptoms or are worried, never hesitate to visit a cardiologist. With proper management and care, most heart failure patients can have a healthy life. Therefore, always visit a good health facility, such as a Cardiology hospital near me, to receive appropriate treatment. Regular follow-up and check-up must be performed to prevent aggravation of the condition.
